Journal of Biotechnology & Biomaterials
Open Access

Abstract

B acterial surfaces such as cell walls or polymeric materials (exopolymers) exuded by bacteria includes slimes, sheaths, or biofilms, or even dormant spores can act as important sites for the adsorption of ions. Bacterially induced mineralization has recently emerged as a method for protecting decayed construction materials. In nature, building and remediation structures with local materials occurs without any requirement of extreme energy usage. This occurs through the application of microorganisms which deposit carbonates (as part of their basic metabolic activities), one of the most well known minerals. These deposits (commonly called as calcium carbonate crystals/ calcite crystals/ microbial concrete) act as binders between loose substrate particles and reduce the pores inside the substrate particles. The use of bacteria for remediating building materials is a new idea, In nature many carbonate rocks have been cemented by calcium carbonate precipitation from microbes, This can be used for solving various durability issues of construction materials. Microorganisms are abundant in nature, which paves the way for massive production of bacterial calcium carbonate crystals. As the microorganisms can penetrate and reproduce themselves in soil or any such environments, there is no need to disturb the ground or environment unlike that of cement. This technology also offers the benefit of being novel and eco- friendly. This new technology can provide ways for low cost and durable roads, high strength buildings with more bearing capacity, long lasting river banks, erosion prevention of loose sands and low cost durable housing.

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